In Colorado, an SR‑22 (Certificate of Financial Responsibility) is required when a driver reinstates a license after certain suspensions or revocations. The state mandates that the insurance company file the SR‑22 on the driver’s behalf and that the insurer notify the DMV of any policy cancellation. The SR‑22 is not an insurance policy itself but a proof that liability coverage meeting state standards is in force.
To file, the driver must obtain liability insurance that includes the SR‑22 rider; the insurer then files the form with the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles. Drivers can upload the completed SR‑22 through the myDMV portal or mail it with Form DR 2870. If the driver changes insurers, a new SR‑22 must be filed before the previous one expires. Reinstatement of a suspended license requires the SR‑22 to be on file for the period specified for the offense (ranging from 9 months to 3 years), payment of a $95 reinstatement fee, and may include additional conditions such as an ignition interlock device, completion of a Level II treatment program, or alcohol‑education sessions. Failure to maintain the SR‑22 results in automatic license suspension.